ELLE.com sat down with the influential CEO and founder of Hourglass Cosmetics to talk about her brand, her beauty routine, and personal style.

On Hourglass

On Hourglass

Carisa Janes is specifically focused on innovation. "If we feel there’s something missing from the marketplace, if we believe we can improve on what already exists, if we’ve discovered a compelling new ingredient or technology—all these factors are influential," she said.

For spring, the California-based company is introducing Ambient Lighting Powder, a cutting-edge collection of finishing powders that soften the way the light appears on your skin that were inspired by Janes's mother. "She always used flattering pink light bulbs in the house," she said. "Groundbreaking new technology allowed us to make that viable."

True Calling

True Calling

"There are two things I came into this world loving: horses and makeup!" said Janes who wanted to "create a modern luxury line that incorporated clinical levels of active ingredients." Janes also wanted products that would look good on her counter. "I really wanted beautiful textures, rich pigments, and sophisticated packaging," she said.